.082 Dustin Lance Black

When we first met for coffee over 5 years ago (!), Lance and I spoke for over two hours. We talked about pretty much everything, from travels and childhood to the important and challenging fight for LGBT rights. From that very first moment, he was every bit as curious about me as I was about him and his story. He listened and made me feel welcome, as he does with every single person that he meets. This innate ability that he has to invite you into the moment with comfort and kindness just barely scratches the surface of why I appreciate him and am immensely grateful for our friendship.

One thing I learned fairly quickly with Lance is that he has an unbelievable sense of humor. Brought on by his incredible intelligence, sharp wit and acute hearing, he lands a joke with perfection, and personally, knows exactly how to get me laughing. Being around his brain and his heart is a true privilege. He has such an enormous capacity to change the world and not only has he done so already (for years), but he’s doing so now with every minute of each day. I’ve learned so much just from listening to him and watching his determination, his drive and his empathy in action, through his day-to-day interactions and all of his projects. He is a true role model and leader with how to push the needle of social justice forward, all while helping those around him pursue and achieve their dreams, and all while being compassionate. He is an expert at storytelling and at finding the gems worth sharing with the world. Lance is charismatic beyond belief and sincere and respectful with every word and action.

Above all, however, I am continually in awe of Lance’s dedication, love and care for his family. They are so clearly his everything, and he shows it through the simplest of gestures and a constant smile whenever they are around or even come up in conversation. As a father, Lance is on another level with regard to unconditional love and support. He’s the goofball, foundation and hero anyone would want to grow up with.

Lance, thank you so very much for your friendship, mentorship and kindness. Thank you for constantly making me laugh and for supporting my endeavors and adventures. Thank you for our conversations - both the silly and the serious - that have altogether made me into a better, more rounded person. Thank you for being a genuine example of what it means to live a full life with pride for who you are and with an eye for helping others. You are a leader and a role model for the LGBT community and we’re all better off because you’re in this world. Thank you for your art, your advice and your honesty, and thank you for never letting up on the fight for equality, for all. I’m so grateful to have you in my life. Thank you for being you.